Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City: A 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Historical and Cultural Landmarks

• Morning: Reunification Palace
  • Visit the Reunification Palace: Start your day with a visit to the Reunification Palace, a significant historical site where the Vietnam War officially ended in 1975. Explore the grand halls, war command rooms, and the basement bunker filled with war relics.
  • Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica: Just a short walk away, visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, an iconic neo-Romanesque structure built by French colonists in the late 19th century. Admire its impressive architecture and peaceful surroundings.
• Afternoon: War Remnants Museum and Saigon Central Post Office
  • War Remnants Museum: Delve into Vietnam’s turbulent history at the War Remnants Museum. The museum offers powerful exhibits on the Vietnam War, including photographs, weapons, and military equipment. It’s a sobering yet essential experience to understand the country’s past.
  • Saigon Central Post Office: Next, visit the Saigon Central Post Office, a beautiful example of French colonial architecture designed by Gustave Eiffel. Inside, you’ll find a charming mix of old-world elegance and modern-day function, along with souvenir shops.
• Evening: Ben Thanh Market
  • Explore Ben Thanh Market: End your day with a visit to Ben Thanh Market, one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most famous landmarks. The market is bustling with vendors selling everything from clothes and souvenirs to fresh produce and street food. It’s a great place to practice your bargaining skills and try local dishes like Pho or Banh Xeo.

Day 2: Discovering Local Culture and Daily Life

• Morning: Cholon (Chinatown)
  • Explore Cholon: Spend your morning in Cholon, Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant Chinatown. Visit the Thien Hau Temple, a beautiful pagoda dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu, known for its intricate carvings and smoky incense-filled atmosphere.
  • Binh Tay Market: Wander through Binh Tay Market, the central market of Cholon, where you can find a wide array of goods including textiles, spices, and traditional Chinese herbs. It’s a lively spot that gives insight into the daily life of the local Chinese-Vietnamese community.
• Afternoon: Jade Emperor Pagoda and Coffee Culture
  • Jade Emperor Pagoda: Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda, one of the most atmospheric temples in the city. Built in 1909, this Taoist pagoda is known for its elaborate wood carvings, statues, and the distinct scent of incense.
  • Experience Saigon’s Coffee Culture: Spend the afternoon relaxing in one of Ho Chi Minh City’s many cafes. Try local favorites like iced coffee with condensed milk (Cà Phê Sữa Đá) or the unique Egg Coffee. Popular spots include The Workshop and L’Usine.
• Evening: Saigon Opera House and Dong Khoi Street
  • Saigon Opera House: In the evening, catch a performance at the Saigon Opera House, a stunning example of French colonial architecture. If you’re interested in traditional Vietnamese performances, check out the AO Show, which blends acrobatics, dance, and traditional music.
  • Stroll Down Dong Khoi Street: After the show, take a leisurely stroll down Dong Khoi Street, the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s shopping and entertainment district. The street is lined with high-end boutiques, galleries, and cafes, perfect for an evening of people-watching and window shopping.

Day 3: Day Trips and Unique Experiences

• Morning: Cu Chi Tunnels
  • Day Trip to Cu Chi Tunnels: Take a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Learn about the history of the tunnels, see the ingenious traps and strategies used by the Viet Cong, and even experience crawling through a section of the tunnel.
  • Return to the City: Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the early afternoon, with plenty of time to continue exploring.
• Afternoon: Saigon River and Bitexco Financial Tower
  • Saigon River Cruise: Take a leisurely boat cruise along the Saigon River to see the city from a different perspective. This is a great way to relax and enjoy the contrast between the city’s bustling urban life and the peaceful riverbanks.
  • Bitexco Financial Tower and Skydeck: After the cruise, visit the Bitexco Financial Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the city. Head up to the Saigon Skydeck on the 49th floor for panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City, especially breathtaking at sunset.
• Evening: Bui Vien Street
  • Bui Vien Street (Backpacker Street): In the evening, head to Bui Vien Street, the lively backpacker area of Ho Chi Minh City. The street is packed with bars, clubs, and street food vendors, making it a great place to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a few drinks, meet fellow travelers, and soak up the lively atmosphere.

Day 4: Markets, Shopping, and Final Exploration

• Morning: Visit the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens
  • Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens: Start your last day with a visit to the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, one of the oldest zoos in the world. The gardens are a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, home to a variety of animals, rare plants, and a historical museum.
• Afternoon: Shopping and Museums
  • Visit the Museum of Vietnamese History: Located within the zoo grounds, the museum offers a fascinating overview of Vietnam’s history from ancient times to the present day, with exhibits on everything from archaeology to ethnology.
  • Shopping in Saigon Square: For a final shopping spree, visit Saigon Square, a popular indoor market known for its affordable fashion, accessories, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to pick up last-minute gifts and bargains.
• Evening: Dinner Cruise on the Saigon River
  • Final Evening on the Saigon River: End your trip with a memorable dinner cruise on the Saigon River. Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese meal while cruising past the city’s skyline, beautifully lit up at night. It’s a perfect way to wrap up your stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

Additional Tips and Precautions:

• Traffic: Ho Chi Minh City is known for its chaotic traffic, especially during rush hours. Be cautious when crossing the streets, and consider taking a taxi or using a ride-hailing app like Grab for longer distances.
• Weather: The city is hot and humid year-round, so dress lightly and stay hydrated. Carry an umbrella or raincoat, especially during the rainy season (May to November).
• Scams: Be aware of common scams targeting tourists, especially in crowded areas. Always agree on prices beforehand, whether you’re taking a taxi, buying something at a market, or using a service.
• Language: While English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases can help in everyday interactions and show respect for the local culture.
• Cultural Etiquette: When visiting temples or pagodas, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. Always remove your shoes before entering religious sites.

This 4-day itinerary offers a comprehensive experience of Ho Chi Minh City, blending historical exploration, cultural immersion, and vibrant city life. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, foodie, or just want to soak in the energy of Vietnam’s largest city, this guide ensures you’ll make the most of your time in Ho Chi Minh City.